Beth Elderd

WEAVERVILLE - Beth Elderd passed away on May 6th, 2023 just shy of her 77th birthday after a seven-year battle with Parkinson's disease.

Beth was born in Long Island and was a proud graduate of Plainview High School. Soon after, she met the love of her life, Ben Elderd and then her travels began. After some time in Nevada, she eventually settled down in the Chicago area and graduated from the University of Illinois, Chicago. Over the years, she worked as an accountant, college sales book representative, and a computer consultant - founding her own company.

After moving from the Midwest to California, Beth found the second love of her life - cycling, which she shared with her husband, Ben. On their bicycles, they set out to explore the world with adventures in the Canadian Rockies, the South Island of New Zealand, the Andes, and all throughout Europe. Every year, she would often log over 5,000 miles on her bicycle. In between those trips, Beth and Ben decided to move to the Asheville area pursuing their passions of great cycling and great food/ice cream. Once in Asheville, she could be seen many a weekend along the Blue Ridge parkway and other roads conquering the hills and preparing for her next adventure. She was an active part of the bicycling community in Asheville and served as the treasurer for the Blue Ridge Bicycle Club and the co-director of the Fletcher Flyer.

After her Parkinson's diagnosis, she had to give up on cycling but didn't give up on adventure -- seeking many a trail to climb. One can say many things about Beth such as how unbelievably kind and caring she was, but one that stands out is her dogged determination to master whatever the task at hand may be (aka Iron Beth). She was also always quick to laugh and give someone a smile whether on her bike or on the trail.

Beth is survived by her husband of 57 years, Ben; her son, Bret; her daughter-in-law, Jennie and two grandchildren, Blythe and Jasper who she loved so very much. She also leaves behind her big brother Earl and her big sister Sue. Needless to say, she was always cherished and will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, please click here send donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation to help in the fight against Parkinson's.